5 healthy habits for a happy life

In a world where sitting behind a desk for eight hours a day
is the norm and a hot commute on a packed-out train is the only thing that gets
you sweaty, it’s no surprise that many people’s health and well-being takes a
back seat. Stress, anxiety and chronic fatigue are all symptoms of modern day life,
and sometimes staying healthy can seem like more effort than it should be.
However, with these five healthy habits, you can prepare to be the hero of your
own health: boost your mood and feel great.

1)Catch enough Zzzz’s

At the risk of sounding like a nagging
parent, don’t stay up past your bedtime! Getting 7-8 hours of sleep each night
is crucial for good health. Not only is this the time that your body repairs
itself, but it’s also the time that your mind processes and retains newinformation. Creating a bedtime routine, turning off all screens an hour before
bed and exercising regularly can help you get the rest you need, so you can
smash your goals during the day.

2)Get hydrated

When you’re dehydrated, mental focus declines, physical performance is limited
and weight loss is hindered. An average adult should drink 2-3 litres of water
a day in order to stay fully hydrated. Try placing a litre bottle of water by
your computer at work so that taking regular sips becomes habitual. Expect to
experience increased alertness and compliments from your boss about how ‘on the
ball’ you are.

3)Keep a gratitude diary

At the end of each day, jot down three
things that you’re truly grateful for. Whether someone held open a door for
you, or a stranger asked how you are, recognising small moments of kindness
from others helps to create a sense of calm, happiness and positivity. This
sense of calmness and clarity transfers into every aspect of life, and before
long you’ll even be smiling on your commute (maybe)!

4)Move yo’ body

Needless to say, regular exercise is the
best way to keep your body in tip top shape. On top of the physical benefits of
exercise, the mental benefits are countless too: nothing quite beats that
post-exercise high. Thanks to the immediate release of the mood-boosting happy
hormones, endorphins, exercise gives you a feeling of accomplishment, happiness
and pride. What’s more, you don’t have to be slaving away on the treadmill
every day to reap the benefits; incorporating even a little bit of movement
will boost your mood: jog home from work; get your friends to check out a new
fitness class; or join a local sports team.

5)Meditate

Taking just 5 – 10 minutes of your day to still
the mind and turn your attention inwards can improve mental focus, reduce
anxiety and fill you with an ommazing sense of inner peace. As well as the
mental benefits, meditation can also help lower cholesterol, improve sleepquality and decrease blood pressure –all those benefits for sitting still for
10 minutes a day? Sign me up!